Business / In Brief • Apr. 21, 2012

April 21, 2012

WAIPAHU, Oahu - A West Oahu farm has been ordered to stop selling basil after an unapproved pesticide was found during routine sampling.

The state Department of Health said Friday it is placing an embargo on approximately 28 acres of fresh basil grown by FAT Law's Farm.

The department says samples collected at the Ewa farm last week tested positive for a pesticide not approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for use on basil. More samples from the Kunia farm this week also tested positive.

The department does not consider the situation to be a significant public health threat.

Co-owner Frank Law says when he realized the pesticide was inadvertently used, he tried to destroy the basil, but inspectors insisted on testing the crops. He says customers have been calling demanding basil.

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Senate panel backs funding for rail line

HONOLULU - The U.S. Senate appropriations committee is supporting a bill allocating $250 million for a rail line in Honolulu.

Sen. Daniel Inouye's office said the committee voted 28 to 1 in favor of the bill on Thursday.

The Hawaii Democrat, who is the chairman of the appropriations committee, was among those voting for the bill.

The full Senate will vote on the measure before it goes to the House of Representatives.

The city broke ground on the 20-mile elevated track last year. The line will include 21 stations from East Kapolei to Ala Moana Center.

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Condo management expert will speak

WAIKAPU - Condominium management expert Marjorie Jean Meyer will speak during a Condominium Council of Maui meeting on Thursday at the Kahili Golf Club.

The deadline to register is Monday. The event costs $50 for members, $60 for nonmembers. A buffet lunch is included.